Medieval German

City Hall building in Bamberg - Day 6

Medieval Germany

Explore quintessential medieval Germany, the aptly named Romantic Road, and some of Bavaria’s most enchanting towns and cities. Leisurely glide to the likes of Mainz, Miltenberg and Ochsenfurt to wonder at the carefully preserved medieval settlements, with their winding, cobbled streets and half-timbered houses.

Your cruise at a glance

DAY 1 – Embark in Mainz

Embark your five-star ship in Mainz.

DAY 2 – Mainz

Included morning guided tour of Mainz. Afternoon and overnight sailing towards Miltenberg.

DAY 3 – Miltenberg & Wertheim

Included morning guided tour of Miltenberg. Included afternoon guided tour of Wertheim. Evening and overnight sailing.

DAY 4 – Würzburg

Included afternoon guided tour of Würzburg.

DAY 5 – Rothenburg & Ochsenfurt

Drive along the Romantic Road to Rothenburg. Included afternoon guided tour of Ochsenfurt. Evening and overnight sailing.

DAY 6 – Bamberg

Morning sailing. Included afternoon guided tour of Bamberg. Overnight sailing to join the Main-Danube Canal.

8 DAYS FROM $4,049

May to September 2022

DAY 7 – Nuremberg

Morning sailing. Included guided tour of Nuremberg

DAY 8 – Disembark in Nuremberg

This morning, the crew bids you farewell before you disembark.

Please note: On some dates, this cruise operates in reverse order. You will experience the same tours and visits. See the Pricing & Departures page for details.

Your itinerary

DAY 1 – Embark in Mainz

Arrive in Mainz and embark your five-star cruise ship. The friendly crew welcomes you, and there’s an air of anticipation and excitement as you acquaint yourself with the luxury surroundings of the ship that will be your home for the next seven days. You’ll soon be settled into your exceptionally well-equipped, spacious cabin and looking forward to a first-night dinner to start off your cruise in style. (D)

DAY 2 – Mainz

Whether you decide to take breakfast in bed or set yourself up for the day at the plentiful buffet, afterwards you can enjoy a morning exploring bustling Mainz on our guided tour. Dominating its skyline is the colossal six-towered 12th-century cathedral – Martinsdom – a pinnacle of German Romanesque architecture that houses a spectacular nave, many elaborate tombs and a peaceful colonnaded cloister. Also unmissable is Saint Stephen’s Church, which features nine breathtaking stained glass windows, created by the artist Marc Chagall, that bathe the interior in magical blue light. Book-lovers will appreciate the Gutenberg Museum, located in a gorgeous 17th-century building in Mainz’s Old Town, whose star attractions are two 1455 Gutenberg Bibles, among the first books ever printed. Of course, Mainz is also at the heart of Germany’s winelands, so it’s a pleasure to seek out a traditional wine tavern in the pastel-painted, timber-crisscrossed buildings of the old town to sample a glass. If you prefer beer, the vaulted chambers of the Eisgrub-Bräu beer hall are a fine place for a mug of the local dark brew. Back on board your floating boutique hotel in the afternoon, find a relaxing seat in the lounge to take in the lovely views of lush woodland and fertile vineyards seamlessly idling by. As evening approaches, why not enjoy an apéritif in the bar before choosing a table in the restaurant to enjoy the chef’s masterful creations for dinner? (B,L,D)

DAY 3 – Miltenberg & Wertheim

Today, we’re moored in Miltenberg, a beautifully preserved medieval village whose labyrinth of winding alleys and lanes begs exploration. And so, this morning we do exactly that, as our local guide shows us the highlights of this charming destination. Admire the impressive gatehouse which stands like a proud guardian of the village, and wander across the charming marketplace, lined by traditional fachwerk buildings instantly recognisable by their grids of timber framing. The story goes that locals were allowed free wood from the surrounding forests, hence the abundance of this architectural style. Highlights of this beautiful square include the trickling fountain, ornately carved from stone and complete with dancing cherubs, and the intricately detailed Gasthaus Zum Riesen, which claims to be Germany’s oldest tavern. In the afternoon we pass under Miltenberg’s red-brick bridge and continue to Wertheim, navigating the gentle meandering bends typical of the Main River. Relax and take in the scenery while sipping your choice of tea or coffee or maybe something a little more fortifying from the bar. Wertheim is completely off the main tourist trail, making it a delightful surprise, all the better for its untouched ambience. We pass the fishing boats riding at anchor while admiring the muted colours of the sage-green, pale lilac and buttercup-yellow houses opposite. This afternoon, enjoy a carefully planned walking tour around this wonderfully intriguing town. A russetwalled 12th-century castle overlooks the old town, surveying the church spires, turrets and patchwork of multicoloured buildings below. There’s time to explore here and, as you wander the quaint and colourful market square, look out for the

Your cruise price includes

• 7 guided tours, including

Bamberg, Würzburg,

Nuremberg, Ochsenfurt,

Miltenberg, Wertheim and

Mainz • 7 nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, with river views • All meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival through to breakfast on your day of departure, including welcome cocktails, a welcome dinner and the Captain’s Dinner • Complimentary on-board tea and coffee • Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi (connection speeds may vary)

Plus, of course...

• Five-star service from an

English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides • Services of a Riviera Travel cruise director and concierge • All port charges, airport taxes and overseas transfers • No surcharges guaranteed

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner

Prices are per person. Departure dates, prices and ship information – see page 57 or visit our website

GERMANY

Mainz

Frankfurt

Würzburg

Main

Miltenberg Wertheim Ochsenfurt

KEY

Excursion

River Cruise Rothenburg Bamberg

7 8

Nuremberg

blink-and-miss-it Zobelhaus, a contender for the narrowest house in Germany. This evening you’ll be served another delectable dinner, and overnight we cruise to Würzburg. (B,L,D)

DAY 4 – Würzburg

One of the delights of river cruising is indulging in complete relaxation, so this morning perhaps catch up on some reading or simply watch the world float by. This afternoon we arrive at elegant Würzburg, which contrasts with the quaint towns and villages you’ve encountered so far. We have a guided tour of this Bavarian city sitting resplendent on the banks of the Main, founded in the 10th century as the centre of the kingdom known as Franconia. The impressive Marienberg Fortress overlooks the neat blocks of grand pastel-coloured buildings punctuated by the spires and domes of the city’s many churches. The jewel in Würzburg’s illustrious crown is the Residenz, a magnificent Baroque palace that whisks you back to a more romantic age. Originally conceived to rival the Palace of Versailles in scale, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and features one of Germany’s most spectacularly ornate staircases and dozens of interconnecting rooms adorned with gorgeous frescoes, priceless tapestries, sculptures and paintings. There’s ample time to explore here as you wish before returning to the ship, enjoying another evening of exceptional cuisine and a drink in the bar as the pianist works his magic at the keyboard. (B,L,D)

DAY 5 – Rothenburg & Ochsenfurt

After breakfast we take a drive along the Romantic Road – the perfectly named route made up of a spellbinding procession of folkloric scenery, medieval towns, lofty castles and grand palaces, so picture-perfect they could all serve as film sets. We arrive at gorgeous Rothenburg, crowning a hill with glorious views over the meandering river below. The old town is cradled within immaculately preserved walls, and there’s time to explore its narrow, cobbled streets lined with tall gabled half-timbered houses.

A short drive takes us to Ochsenfurt, nestled on the banks of the Main where our ship and another superb lunch await. This afternoon we explore this picturesque little town on a guided tour, with its romantic, half-timbered houses and ancient ramparts. Wander the old town, stopping to admire the façade of the town hall with its impressive mechanical clock and a lovely 13thcentury church with its strikingly colourful interior before returning to the ship. (B,L,D)

DAY 6 – Bamberg

Another day dawns and this morning is free to enjoy the ship’s five-star facilities while admiring the magnificent undulating landscape. There’s nothing quite as refreshing as the gentle breeze as we progress along the serene waters of the Main. Alternatively, why not find a quiet al fresco seat at the Lido Lounge at the stern of the ship and admire one enchanting vista after another? We moor this afternoon in Bamberg, undoubtedly one of the prettiest small towns in the whole of Europe and so precious that UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site. Planned by Emperor Heinrich II in the 11th century as a Franconian capital, it sits on seven lush green hills, a similar setting to the city whose grandeur it was meant to equal – Rome! You’ll discover its history and many architectural highlights on our informative tour led by a local guide, which takes in the exquisite Old Town and impressive multi-spired cathedral. Perhaps the most noticeable and intriguing landmark is Bamberg’s old town Hall, which sits on an island in the middle of the burbling river, flanked by bridges either side. From here you can also see ‘Little Venice’ – a delightful cluster of former fishermen’s houses built along the waterfront, mostly dating from the Middle Ages. Leaving Bamberg, we join the Main–Danube canal, a superb feat of engineering guiding us to our next fascinating stop, Nuremberg. (B,L,D)

DAY 7 – Nuremberg

Of course, this Bavarian city is intriguing for its association with the Second World War, as the site of many pre-war Nazi rallies and, later, the war crimes trials. What’s little known, however, is

Nuremberg - Day 7

that Nuremberg also captivates visitors with its cobbled streets with classic half-timbered houses, an enchanting castle (rebuilt after wartime bombings) and many historic landmarks. These include the Church of Saint Lawrence, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the intricate Church of Our Lady, which features a working mechanical clock dating from 1506 and overlooks the bustling Hauptmarkt square, itself renowned for its intricate fountain resembling a Gothic church tower. Amid all this splendour, spare a moment to taste Nuremberg’s famous gingerbread, perhaps stocking up with a packet to spice up the biscuit tin back home! Afterwards you return to the ship for your final dinner on board, perhaps selecting a local white from the wine list and, later, enjoying a coffee in the lounge with your travel companions while sharing memories of your exploration of Germany’s medieval heart. (B,L,D)

DAY 8 – Disembark in Nuremberg

After breakfast this morning, the crew bids you farewell before you disembark. (B)

Please note: On some dates, this tour operates in reverse order. You will experience the same tours and visits. See the Pricing & Departure page for details.

Your options

Choose your cabin or suite

Select one of our middle or upper deck cabins or suites, with floor-toceiling windows that open up to a French balcony. Or for the ultimate luxury, upgrade to one of our superior or deluxe suites, with either a French or private outside balcony. All upper deck cabins and all superior and deluxe suites benefit from the added extras of Riviera Plus (see page 19).

Purchase a drinks package

Our package offers a selection of drinks served during lunch and dinner. When it’s time to dine in the restaurant, take your pick from a range of draught beer, non-alcoholic beer, soft drinks, juices and red, white and rosé house wines by the glass. Drinks packages must be purchased by all guests in the same cabin or suite and do not include drinks from the bar. Priced at $199 per person.

On-board credit

Plan ahead by purchasing on-board credit before you sail. Available in denominations of €50, add an amount to suit you, to spend as you wish. Enjoy drinks in the bar and restaurant at any time, indulge in a spa or salon treatment or choose something from the on-board boutique.

My view

Insider knowledge

Discovered during construction work by the Rhine in the 1990s, a collection of well-preserved Roman war ship remains forms the core of a fascinating exhibition at the Museum of Seafaring History in Mainz.

Buy

Nuremburg was the birthplace of the modern lead pencil and famous manufacturer Staedtler is still based in the city. Seek out your favourite coloured pencils amidst a riotous display at the Staedtler flagship store.

Taste

For a typical taste of Rothenburg try the Schneeball, a deep fried pastry ball dusted with icing sugar.

Viktoria

Glass blowing - Wertheim

The prices are per person, based on two people sharing. Dates marked with an asterisk * operate a reverse itinerary.

MS George Eliot Five-star

Deck Lower Middle Upper

Cabin Type Standard Superior Suite Standard Superior Suite Standard Superior Suite Deluxe Balcony Suite

17/05/2022 $4,419

24/05/2022* 31/05/2022 07/06/2022*, 14/06/2022 21/06/2022* $4,549 $4,789 $4,919 $4,669

10/08/2022, 17/08/2022* 24/08/2022

$4,419 $4,669 31/08/2022*, 07/09/2022, 14/09/2022* $5,039 21/09/2022 $4,549

28/09/2022* $4,049 $5,049 $5,179 $5,419 $5,549 $5,299 $5,049 $5,299 $5,669 $5,179 $4,679 $5,179 $5,309 $5,549 $5,679 $5,429 $5,179 $5,429 $5,799 $5,309 $4,809 $5,929 $5,549

$6,169 $6,059 $5,679 $6,299 $6,299 $5,919 $6,539 $6,429 $6,049 $6,669 $6,179 $5,799 $6,419

$5,929 $5,549 $6,179 $5,799

$6,169 $6,419 $6,549 $6,169 $6,789 $6,059 $5,679 $6,299 $5,559 $5,179 $5,799 $7,059 $7,189 $7,429 $7,559 $7,309 $7,059 $7,309 $7,679 $7,189 $6,689

SINGLE OCCUPANCY – On the lower deck there are a limited number of standard cabins available at No Single Supplement, subject to availability. Additional lower, middle or upper deck standard cabins are available on request at a supplement of 50% of the per person cabin price – subject to availability. All other cabin types carry a 100% supplement when requested for sole occupancy. PLEASE NOTE – Due to locks and low bridges the main part of the sun deck will be closed between Frankfurt and Nuremberg. The other outside areas in front of the lounge, the lido bar and the lower section of the sun deck are still accessible. DEPOSIT – The deposit for this river cruise is $500 per person.

Nuremberg - Day 7